Concept note 

Introduction 

FES is a German Foundation (app. 100 offices worldwide) and it has been in existence in Rwanda since 2017 where it fully registered with both Minaloc & RGB.

Apart from other activities that FES works on with Trade Unions, NGOs, and Think Tanks, in relation to Good Governance, Social Protection, Democratization and Decentralization, FES runs The Young Citizen Training Program/Youth Academy as one of the major programs that it implements in Rwanda. 

Young Citizen Training Program/Youth Academy (YCTP/YA) is Six Months Part time residential program in Kigali for 20 young Rwandans that cover six thematic modules + soft skill training. The program is conducted in 2 – 3 days / month running from March through November. 

The YCTP/YA Focus on;

• Concrete projects which drive social & political change
• Strengthen collective activism and youth engagement rather than personal career development of participants
• Be more political and value-oriented
• Establish connections to projects and activism of participants
• Social democratic values 

 The objectives of YCTP/YA

• To empower the Young citizens representing various organizations and institutions
• To contribute to the processes of achieving the national vision,
• To enhance and apply relevant concepts related to citizenship and youth civic engagement,
• Connect with experts in different fields for their role as future change makers. 

Methodology

• Use a broader range of methods – more practical and action-oriented
• Site visits – direct contact
• More creative methods (Video, social media, political theatre, etc.) 

Who are the invited experts?

• Academics,
• Diplomats,
• Political figures,
• National and international experts from fields as diverse as sociology, economics and politics,
• Journalists,
• Entrepreneurs,
• or artists … 

The YCTP/YA overall topics in 2024 

• 1st Session: Gender Justice and intersectionality (March 21st – 23rd)
• 2nd Session: Social Democracy, Good Governance and Genocide prevention (April 18th -20th)
• 3rd Session: Social Justice, Descent Work and Social Dialogue (May 16th – 18th)
• 4th Session: Climate Crisis, Global Justice and Green Economy (June 20th-22nd)
• 5th Session: youth Activism and mental health (August 22nd – 24th)
• 6th Session: Foreign Policy and Regional Integration & Project Showcase Event (18th-20th) 

What’s unique about YCTP/YA?

• Holistic Networking Environment: Providing a space for both social interactions and networking, enabling participants to build diverse connections.
• Engagement Platform for Young people: Offering a platform where committed young people can harness their capabilities and strengths.
• Exploration of Leadership Attributes: Providing opportunities to delve into various leadership qualities essential for activism and community involvement.
• Fostering Critical Thinking and Soft Skills: Encouraging the development of critical thinking abilities and soft skills essential for navigating complex societal issues. 

What is expected from the participants 

• Interest and Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in social and political change, along with a commitment to civic engagement and activism.
• Relevant Background: Participants should demonstrate an example of how they have been actively involved in social initiatives, community projects, NGOs, or youth organizations or demonstrated leadership or activism at their higher learning institutions if they are still students.
• Leadership Potential: The program Look for individuals who exhibit leadership qualities, even if not in formal roles, showing the potential to drive change within their communities.
• Strong Communication Skills: Participants should have the ability to express their ideas effectively, engage in discussions, and collaborate with peers.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Participants are expected to have ability to analyze complex issues, think critically, and propose innovative solutions.
• Open-Mindedness: The program seeks for candidates who are open to different perspectives, willing to learn, and engage in respectful dialogues.
• Availability and Commitment: Participants should commit to the program's duration, including the residential sessions and workshops, and be available for the entire period of the program. 

Selection criteria

• Young Rwandan women and men, who are involved in social and/or community activities,
• Aged between 23 and 35 years,
• Students who have held leadership positions at their high learning institutions
• Holders of a university degree or university students with leadership portfolio,
• Fluent in Kinyarwanda and English, French knowledge is an advantage. 

Working language: English 

Should you have any question for clarification about the above-mentioned program, do not hesitate to contact us on email at  yctp@fes-rwanda.org/programmanager-1@fes-rwanda.org

Or call Tel: +250 7869 500 20/+250788574706 

Application link: https://forms.gle/ftnCfGANBEqcKeWT7

Deadline for application:

The answered and fulfilled application form has to be submitted until Friday, 5^th of January 2024, 4pm